Philippines, Nigeria collaborate to assemble electric vehicles locally

In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable transportation and a cleaner environment, Francisco Motors Philippines has announced a strategic partnership with Nigerian entrepreneur and Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Lagos, Emmanuel Akpakwu, MFR. This collaboration will introduce electric vehicles (EVs) to Nigeria, with an aim to deliver clean, efficient, and affordable transportation options.

Francisco Motors, a renowned leader in the Philippine automotive industry, has already produced and supplied more than 250,000 units of its iconic jeepneys in the Philippines and has expanded exports to various countries worldwide. The company’s experience and success in the EV sector make it a valuable partner in Nigeria’s journey toward modernizing its public transportation with sustainable solutions.

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The Francisco electric jeepney (e-jeepney), similar in function to Nigeria’s Molue buses that were once common in Lagos before being replaced by the BRT system, will be introduced in both a 15-seater mini-van for corporate transport and a 30-seater model for local public transportation. These vehicles are engineered for durability, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability, offering a practical solution to Nigeria’s urban transit needs.

“This partnership with Francisco Motors is a bridge to sustainable progress while strengthening ties between Nigeria and the Philippines,” said Akpakwu. “The Philippine Consulate in Lagos is ready to support Nigerian state governments and private partners interested in bringing these electric vehicles to their communities. We are committed to providing every necessary assistance to make this vision a reality across Nigeria.”

This collaboration, supported by the Philippines Embassy in Abuja and led by Ambassador Mersole J. Mellejor, aligns with the Nigerian administration’s goals under President Bola Tinubu to advance sustainable development, improve urban mobility, and reduce carbon emissions. Through this initiative, Francisco Motors will work with local partners to establish EV infrastructure, including charging stations, while creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

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Francisco Motors CEO, Mr. Elmer Francisco, a nuclear physician and green technology leader, has committed his company’s full support to the Nigerian EV market, pledging technical assistance, infrastructure installation, and plans for an assembly facility within Nigeria. This facility will foster local job creation and ensure a sustainable supply chain for EV production in the country.

Opportunities for Expansion Across Nigeria

While the project will initially focus on Lagos, the vision is to expand EV access nationwide. Consul Emmanuel Akpakwu and Francisco Motors are actively seeking partnerships with the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, private transportation companies, and the automobile industry. By collaborating with stakeholders across Nigeria, this initiative aims to promote cleaner air, reduce fossil fuel reliance, and create a foundation for sustainable mobility.

“The establishment of an assembly facility in Nigeria will support job creation and equip communities with the skills needed for EV adoption,” said Mr. Francisco. “We believe that Nigeria is positioned to lead the EV movement in Africa, and Francisco Motors is committed to supporting this transition.”

Interested partners are encouraged to reach out to the Philippines Consulate in Lagos.

This partnership, backed by the Philippine Consulate in Lagos and the Philippine Embassy in Abuja, represents a major milestone in Nigeria-Philippines relations.